GovState professor Ahmet Can receives 2026 Counselor Educator of the Year award
By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Governors State University (GovState) professor Dr. Ahmet Can recently received the 2026 Counselor Educator of the Year award from the Illinois Counseling Association.
This award recognizes an Illinois counselor educator, supervisor, or trainer who has demonstrated an exemplary record of preparing counselors to work effectively with children and adolescents. The Illinois Counseling Association is the leading source of information regarding licensure, legislation, and developments in the counseling field in Illinois.
Dr. Can says he is honored and humbled to receive the award.
“Receiving this recognition is deeply meaningful to me, and I do not take this honor for granted,” said Dr. Can, Associate Professor in the Department of Counseling. “It reflects my commitment to preparing future counselors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, adolescents, and families.”
A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), Dr. Can has worked as a school and college mental health counselor, clinical supervisor, and counselor educator in a variety of settings. These include elementary, middle, and high schools, a college counseling center, private practice, and higher education.
He expressed gratitude for the community he found in his current role at GovState.
“I am especially grateful to be part of the Governors State University community, where I have the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues and supporting students as they grow into compassionate, competent, and culturally responsive counseling professionals,” said Dr. Can.
He notes the positive impact his students and colleagues have on him and his work, giving this award a deeper meaning.
“My students continually inspire me through their dedication to learning and their desire to serve their communities,” said Dr. Can. “I am also thankful for the encouragement and mentorship of my colleagues and the support of the broader university community. I see this award not only as a personal achievement but also as a reflection of the collective commitment to education, mentorship, and service that makes our work at Governors State University so meaningful.”